KLM will split short-haul catering into 5 bands from 11 October 2026

KLM will launch a buy-on-board program across its short-haul network from 11 October 2026, with 4 different catering service levels. Extra-short Band 1 hops such as Brussels get only water or a hot drink and a snack, with no paid catering, while Band 2 adds complimentary orange juice.

Band 3 routes allow meal pre-orders but may lack buy-on-board food and possibly beverages on some flights. Band 4 and Band 5 get the full buy-on-board menu plus pre-order meals, with a Classic Caesar Salad at $14.30 from 25 October 2026. Last-minute aircraft swaps could load the wrong catering for a band, and short-haul business class boxed meals are not being updated.

LoyaltyLobby argues that 5 bands and 4 service levels will confuse crews and passengers compared with one network-wide buy-on-board option. Award and revenue passengers on KLM within Europe will not see the same catering on every flight, and buy-on-board will exist only on the longer bands.

Before counting on a meal on a KLM European flight, check which of the 5 service bands the route falls into.